Plainville, MA — After struggling in recent starts at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, 3-year-old pacing filly Stowaway Hanover shipped into Massachusetts on Thursday afternoon (Sept. 24) and went the race of her life to win the $15,000 featured pace for fillies and mares at Plainridge Park.

Stowaway Hanover took a lifetime mark in her Plainridge Park debut on Thursday. Tom Melanson photo.

Stowaway Hanover (Mitchell Cushing) took an early lead before letting heavy favorite Trussed Up Trudy (Bruce Ranger) take command and give her the trip. Trussed Up Trudy went to the half in :56.1 and three-quarters in 1:24, with Stowaway Hanover in hot pursuit. The two horses separated from the field going into the last turn, where Stowaway Hanover tipped and paced by the leader. At the top of the stretch, Stowaway Hanover kicked away to a 3-1/2 length lead at the line, where she won in a lifetime best 1:52.3.

It was the fifth win of the year for Stowaway Hanover ($16.20), who is owned and trained by Pasquale Picca.

Shawn Gray led all drivers on Thursday with three wins, while trainer Melissa Beckwith was the top conditioner with two.

Racing resumes at Plainridge Park on Friday (Sept. 25) with post time at 2 p.m.

The Massachusetts Sire Stakes begin on Sunday (Sept. 27) at Plainridge Park and run through Oct. 26. There are three preliminary legs for each age, sex and gait followed by the finals. For more information on the MASS, please visit the Standardbred Owners of Massachusetts website.